The eruption in southwest Iceland, which began on 22 August following a series of earthquakes, continues to attract tourists hoping to capture the perfect Instagram picture. The volcano has been spewing ‘witch’s hair’, which are thin, sharp, glass needles that have been falling on communities across the Reykjanes peninsula. This unique phenomenon has caused issues in the town of Reykjanesbær, clogging filters at a local swimming pool and causing minor injuries to individuals who stepped on it barefoot. Natural hazard experts have noted that the jets from the eruption have been particularly high, spreading the ‘witch’s hair’ across the area. It is advised not to touch these fibreglass-like needles with bare hands, as they can be sharp like tiny glass needles.
Tourists from abroad have been drawn to witness the fiery spectacle of the ongoing eruption, with some describing the colors as amazing and feeling a magnetic pull towards the flames. This is the sixth time the volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula has erupted since December, but authorities assure that the effects remain localized and do not pose a threat to the population. Despite road closures in the area, the nearby Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, a popular tourist attraction, has reopened to visitors following the eruption. However, authorities have warned against getting too close to the eruption, especially as the lava flow approaches a contaminated US military training site that was once used for munitions.
Iceland, known for its volcanic activity due to sitting above a volcanic hot spot in the North Atlantic, typically experiences an eruption every four to five years. The most disruptive eruption in recent memory was the 2010 Eyjafjallajokull volcano eruption, which spewed ash into the atmosphere and disrupted trans-Atlantic air travel for an extended period. Despite the ongoing eruption in southwest Iceland, experts do not anticipate it will impact air travel. As the volcano continues to attract visitors seeking the perfect photo opportunity and the ‘witch’s hair’ phenomenon continues to spread across the Reykjanes peninsula, authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of both tourists and residents in the area.
The Director of Sports Facilities in Reykjanesbær expressed surprise at the ‘witch’s hair’ phenomenon, as it has not been observed in previous eruptions in the area. Natural hazard experts at the Icelandic Meteorological Agency have noted the high jets from the latest eruption as the reason for the widespread distribution of the glassy needles. Residents have compared the texture of the ‘witch’s hair’ to that of a hay aftermath, but warn that it is sharp like fine glass needles and can cause injury if not handled properly. It is important to avoid touching the ‘witch’s hair’ with bare hands and allow it to naturally degrade over time into sand. Despite the unique geological event occurring in the area, locals and tourists alike are captivated by the striking visuals and natural beauty of the volcanic eruption.
While authorities have cautioned against approaching the eruption site, some individuals have continued to venture close to get a better view of the fiery spectacle. One visitor from Australia described feeling drawn in by the mesmerizing colors and intensity of the volcano. As crowds gather to witness the volcanic activity and capture memorable experiences, it is crucial to prioritize safety and adhere to the warnings issued by authorities. With the eruption maintaining its localized effects and not posing a significant threat to the population, Icelanders and tourists alike can continue to marvel at the wonders of nature while respecting the potential dangers associated with volcanic activity. As the eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula unfolds, the unique ‘witch’s hair’ phenomenon adds to the allure and intrigue of this geological event, attracting visitors from around the world to witness the raw power and beauty of Iceland’s volcanic landscapes.
